Saracens have made South African centre Brad Barritt their latest close-season signing after landing the youngster on a three-year deal.

Barritt, who joins from the Durban-based Sharks, will join up with Saracens in November after completing his Currie Cup commitments in South Africa.

Saracens director of rugby Eddie Jones said: “Bradley is a very exciting player and we’re delighted that he is joining Saracens. He’s a talented footballer who can control games but he also has a physical edge to his game as his powerful displays for the Sharks in their Super 14 and Currie Cup campaigns have shown.”

He added: “Having spoken at length to Bradley, I know he is looking forward to working with the coaching team at Saracens to help in the development of his game and also broaden his rugby knowledge.

“He won’t be joining us until the conclusion of the Currie Cup but his arrival will add significant strength in depth to the squad.”

The Sharks vice-captain, who will turn 22 on Friday and is a UK passport holder, follows fellow South African Wikus van Heerden to Vicarage Road.

Barritt has made 58 appearances for the Sharks and can also play at fly-half.

Barritt told Sharks’ website: “I wouldn’t consider another option in South Africa. The Sharks is my home, where I grew up, but this is a unique opportunity as a young guy to broaden my horizons.

“I want to emphasise the point that I am not turning my back on the Sharks or Springbok rugby. This is a unique opportunity for me as a young player to grow and improve by playing in different conditions.”